Last week word broke out that a limited run of 500 special edition Focus hot hatch models will be produced to celebrate the end of Focus RS production. The car will be officially shown at the Leipzig Motor Show in Germany on 9th April. Production of the RS500 starts in May at the Saarlouis plant in Germany and is due to finish in September. 101 will head to the UK.

Changes are mainly limited to the engine and trim. Power for the RS500 is increased by 32 kW over the standard RS and torque also rises to 460 N.m. An improved induction package is responsible for much of power gains. Modifications include a larger intercooler and improved airflow through air box as well as a larger diameter exhaust downpipe and uprated fuel pump. Changes to the ECU software allow the RS500 to retain the emissions and fuel consumption of the standard RS.

The revisions to the RS500 allow the 0 – 100 km/h time to drop to 5.4 seconds (0.5 secs faster) with big gains expected on in-gear times. Top speed is expected to remain the same at 260 km/h. Mechanically there are no other changes.

Matt Black bodywork sets the RS500 apart and starts life as standard Panther Black metallic before being shipped to specialist film manufacturer, 3M, who apply a film coating to create a matt black effect. Interior changes are limited to an individually numbered metal plaque, RS patterned trim and red stitching on the steering wheel, door trim, gear lever and floor mats. Red leather Recaro seats can also be specified as an option.

The Focus RS has been a big hit for Ford. Having initially only planned to build 7-8000, by the time the axe falls, over 11,000 will have left the Saarlouis faciility. Don’t forget to check back in the following week as Ford is promising to release more video content of the car in action soon. Via: Evo